The Financial Management Reference Group (FMRG) brings together experienced local government finance professionals to strengthen financial management practice across the sector. The group provides leadership, advice, and practical support to help councils use financial management as a tool for sound decision-making and organisational transformation.
Purpose
FMRG exists to:
- Promote excellence and consistency in financial management across local government.
- Support councils to meet statutory and regulatory financial requirements.
- Champion the use of financial disciplines to improve decision-making and business performance.
- Share tools, guidance, and professional development opportunities that lift capability across the sector.
- Contribute to Taituarā thought leadership and policy work on financial management and related issues.
Responsibilities
Members of the FMRG:
- Monitor emerging financial and policy issues affecting councils and provide timely sector advice.
- Develop and share best practice guidance and sector responses to key challenges.
- Identify training and professional development needs for finance professionals.
- Build connections with organisations such as CAANZ, LGNZ, and other sector partners.
- Provide expertise on matters including accounting, financial planning, rating, borrowing, taxation, and audit.
Current members
Chair:
- Adele Henderson, Western Bay of Plenty District Council
Members:
- Mike Nield, Taranaki Regional Council (Deputy Chair)
- Helen Barnes, New Plymouth District Council
- Jason Beck, Hurunui District Council
- Jenny Livschitz, Hutt City Council
- Sarah Matthews, Taupō District Council
- Tessa Dever, Marlborough District Council
- Tracy Gers, Auckland Council
- Jacinta Straker, Horowhenua District Council
- Alison Trustrum-Rainey, Greater Wellington Regional Council
- Amanda Gray, Office of the Auditor General (observer)
- Mark Tregurtha, Department of Internal Affairs (observer)